Abstract: The present invention relates to a semi-continuous deodorizer comprising at least one stripping section, which stripping section comprises a feed buffer tray for liquids, a liquid flow regulating means, a liquid distributor, a structured packing, and a receiver tray, wherein the regulating means are regulating the liquid flow from the feed buffer tray to the distributor to distribute the flow of liquid over the structured packing. The liquid is in the packing contacted in counter-current flow to an already once-used stripping agent which is recovered from one of more of the trays installed in the apparatus. The invention relates further to a method for refining fats and oils in a semi-continuous deodorizer, a method for re-using stripping agent in a semi-continuous deodorizer, segregating the recovered distillate into high purity types matching the feed type, and a use of the semi-continuous deodorizer.

Abstract: A process for purifying a liquid hydrocarbon feedstock containing organo-sulfur compounds wherein an aqueous sulfuric acid solution containing ions of a transition metal, such as vanadium, chromium, manganese, cobalt, cerium or mixtures thereof, is subject to electrolysis to oxidize the metal ions to a higher oxidation state, the electrolyzed solution is emulsified with the feedstock to achieve oxidation of the organo-sulfur compounds to form water soluble sulfur compounds, gaseous products, resinous products; the spent aqueous acidic solution and the purified hydrocarbon product are separated and the spent aqueous solution is recycled via electrolysis.

Abstract: According to the invention, the oil is passed through a pulverulent material, such as an earth or clay, in the presence of an acid. The pulverulent material can be placed beforehand on a filter or can be mixed with the oil before filtration. If necessary, the oil is recycled through the filter up to complete decontamination.Application to the radioactive decontamination of oils used in the nuclear industry.